Ex-Paralympic star Rose selected as Torchbearer

Two-time Paralympic medallist Ian Rose has been selected to carry the Paralympic Torch on Tuesday 28 August in Tring, Hertfordshire.

Rose, 40, is one of British Judo’s most successful judoka as he enjoyed an illustrious competitive career which saw him become a four-time European champion, three-time world medallist and five-time Paralympian.

The 5th Dan, who was introduced to judo at the age of 7 after his parents realised he needed to improve his self-esteem, was nominated by the British Judo Association, the National Governing Body for the Olympic and Paralympic sport of judo in Great Britain.

Rose said: “It’s a very special honour for me, my family, friends, coaches and everyone who has helped me in my career.

“I’d have loved to be competing in London but it wasn’t to be with injuries but this is the next best thing. I owe a lot of my wife Debbie, children and clubs such as Micklefield Judo Club.”

Rose will be among the feverish British supporters at the ExCeL Arena cheering on British Judo’s five-man team and is delighted that 2.2million Paralympic tickets have already been sold.

“I’ve been to five Paralympic Games, and some have been good, some have been very good, but I think London is going to be something special and the ticket sales reflect that.

“Judo tickets have sold very well which will be a massive plus for the British team and I can’t wait for the Games to start.”

For Paralympic Games tickets click here

For more information on British Judo’s Visually Impaired team click here